Handling - Whats what?!

  • Thread starter Thread starter Willowzee
  • Start date Start date
Status
Not open for further replies.
W

Willowzee

Here I am, noobing it up again! lol.

I just had Smokey and Bandit out, together and on their own, only for a maximum of a few minutes each, as they are still very skittish and I don't want to scare them to death!

When caught they weren't so bad, Bandit just sat there, Smokey was a bit more wriggly, although I think he just wanted to hide.

There as no grinding or peeing, but i'm unsure as to what signs I need to look out for to know if they are scared etc? When I put them back they made a few small sounds, just little... bubbly type noises for a want of a better desc LOL! and went and hid in their house, but I put out some hay and fresh veg, I put some on my hand when I had them but they weren't interested.

Was that ok for a first time handle?
 
I think so. Guinea pigs often either freeze or dive for cover when they're frightened.

As they get used to you, they'll begin to settle down and make themselves comfortable and/or move around a little more.

As they settle, maybe try to feed them a favourie treat (grass or parsley seems to work well) so they associate being handled as a good thing. They may ignore it at first, but once they get confident, they'll start to have a little nibble ;)

Pixel loves to hide and will settle down underneath an old towel on our laps, so maybe that's worth a shot?

Good luck x
 
Your piggies may be comfortable being petted if you have them in a small confined "safe" place like a cuddle cup or under a towel on your lap. Sneaking under a pullover is another good one, as long as you do not mind getting peed on when things become too successful!

The wiggly and unwiling phase is actually a good sign - they have begun to relax and trust you enough to tell you their true feelings.
 
Thanks everyone!

I've ordered a couple of guinea pig cosies so will have them out on my lap with them when they come, will make do with a towel for now, just don't want to overwhelm the poor chaps!

I don't mind the pee, as long as i'm not bitten, I worry about that LOL!
xx
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Back
Top